Serving about 350 bright, imaginative students, the Lower School challenges children with the same types of critical thinking and problem solving activities emphasized in later grades. Small classes give teachers ample opportunity to connect with students, nurture their curiosity and promote the many joys of learning. Most faculty and staff hold advanced degrees, and the school offers a guidance counseling program, as well as a full time learning specialist.
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We can see the growth in our daughter, McKenzie, every day. After school, she bounds into the car beaming about what she learned that day. I just love watching her learn and grow at Porter-Gaud.
Dr. Lauren Bullwinkel Davis: class of 1992, McKenzie: class of 2021
Students in grades first through third learn in self contained classrooms, while later grades are departmentalized. Foreign language instruction begins in first grade, and the balance of the core curriculum focuses on language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. Reading is taught using phonics, while math and science make use of an engaging, hands on approach. Enrichment classes include computer science, art, music, boys and girls choir, and library. Physical education in these early grades emphasizes inclusion, wide experimentation with various sports, and the lessons of teamwork.
The Lower School includes religious instruction at weekly chapel services, and we also offer one semester of character education and one of religious instruction. In addition, there are after school programs with activities ranging from cheerleading to sports and puppetry.